Members of the Ionia County Literacy Council are welcoming Saranac resident and current board of directors member Cynthia Talcott as its new leader.

Talcott is taking the position following the retirement of former executive director Gayle Thompson. She said she has a Master's degree in education from Central Michigan University and specializes in technology and reading. In addition, she has 32 years of teaching experience in Michigan, Hawaii, Alaska and North Dakota, tutoring experience and has directed a number of reading programs.

"I've always been interested in helping (people) read. Literacy is important to me," said Talcott.

She said she believes literacy can help someone believe in themselves, achieve a higher understanding and can help in many fields of employment.

Talcott said her goals are to expand the program to children and young adults as well as spread awareness about the resource.

"I want it to grow," she added. "We need more tutors."

Community members who wish to tutor will be provided with training and everything they need to be a help to someone in need.

The Ionia County Literacy Council provides tutoring for adults in the subject of math, reading and English as a second language free of charge in the community.